We Encourage Students To Go Beyond Regular Degrees

Kongunadu Arts and Science College, ranked among India's top colleges, is recognised as the 'College of Excellence' by the University Grants Commission. Secretary Dr CA Vasuki shares her dedication to inclusive education and her leadership has fostered a welcoming environment for transgender individuals. Edited excerpts:

What is the basic ethos of colleges in this part of the country?

Founded in 1973 by visionaries including my father, an educationist from the Ramakrishna group, the college has always emphasised education beyond academics, integrating Bharatiya culture and values. The motto, ‘Arivu, Panbu, Ulaippu’ (Knowledge, Character, Hard Work), guides its mission.

Originally serving rural Coimbatore, the college was among the first in Tamil Nadu to introduce skill-based education, starting with sericulture in 1974. Today, with 243 PhD students and a strong research focus (H-index of 62), the college aims to produce skilled, independent entrepreneurs rather than just degree holders, maintaining its commitment to research and practical skills.

What kind of out-of-class exposure was provided and what industry connections were established?

In its early years, the college embraced an ‘earn while you learn’ model, especially relevant in Coimbatore's industrial environment. Students attended classes in the mornings and worked in local factories, such as cotton mills and electrical industries, in the afternoons. This approach not only provided practical skills that benefited students in their agricultural backgrounds but also instilled a sense of financial independence. Although this model was discontinued due to changes in the education system, the college continues to prioritise skill development. Today, over 25 skill-based certificate programmes are offered, ranging from apiculture to wildlife biology, ensuring that students gain practical, industry-relevant skills.

How is digitalisation making a difference?

During Covid-19, digitalisation in education gained momentum out of necessity and the college embraced it fully. Courses like wildlife biology and bioinformatics thrived in this new digital environment, attracting students from across India and even abroad. The college's shift to online and open distance learning (ODL) proved successful, with bioinformatics being offered entirely virtually. The institution encourages students to go beyond their regular degrees by taking additional skill-based courses, recognising the industry's demand for more than just academic qualifications.

However, there's a noticeable resistance to change among government-aided teachers, contrasting with the proactive approach in the self-financed sector, where upskilling is mandatory. Despite initial reluctance, students later appreciate the added value these extra courses bring to their qualifications.

In terms of flexibility, how do you manage to change the curriculum and pedagogy within a college, considering the hierarchy and set rules that are in place?

As an autonomous institution for the past 20 years, the college benefits from flexibility in academic matters, including the option to offer courses beyond traditional contact classes. While the digital shift in teaching is welcomed, some teachers, especially in the government-aided sector, are resistant to change, preferring the traditional methods like chalk-and-talk and PPTs. The strong support of state government rules and teacher unions often limits their adaptability. In contrast, the self-financed sector, driven by a survival-of-the-fittest mentality, shows a greater readiness to embrace digital modes and innovative teaching methods, with 99.9 per cent of their diploma and certificate courses conducted online.

With the NEP now allowing greater flexibility in the medium of instruction, including the use of mother tongues, what challenges have you faced regarding language so far?

The policy supports initial education in the mother tongue, recognising its effectiveness in building a strong knowledge base and advocates for learning multiple languages, including English and another language of choice. Students from rural backgrounds who received education in their mother tongue often excel despite initial language barriers. Although the college has long offered language laboratories and software for language improvement, student engagement with these resources is limited. Digital learning and open distance learning (ODL) could enhance language development and prepare students better for interviews and confidence building.

Moving on to community outreach, what are the current efforts and what is your greatest point of satisfaction regarding social impact?

The college relies primarily on word-of-mouth referrals rather than advertising, reflecting its strong reputation for discipline and social responsibility. Located on the edge of a corporation limit, the college remains committed to inclusivity, serving a significant rural and tribal population. Driven by a passion for social impact, we established a tribal centre and a centre of excellence on campus. We promote mutual learning, providing free education and skill development, such as tailoring classes, to tribal students. These initiatives aim to integrate and learn from indigenous knowledge while supporting local communities.

Supporting transgender individuals has become a passion of mine. It started when a transgender person approached me seeking admission to our college and I assured them that education is for everyone, regardless of gender identity. Since then, our college has welcomed several transgender faculty members, students and non-teaching staff. A notable example is Padmini Prakash, India's first transgender news broadcaster, who joined us as a part-time teacher while pursuing her PhD. Despite initial resistance and concerns from some faculty and students, I stood firm on my belief that attitudes must change. I personally introduced Padmini to my students, highlighting her unique qualities, which led to her being embraced and respected. To further support inclusivity, I also constructed a gender-neutral toilet on campus. This journey has reaffirmed my commitment to creating an environment where everyone, regardless of identity, feels valued and supported.

– With inputs from Barkha Rawat

Meha Mathur

BW Reporters The author works as Senior Associate Editor with BW Businessworld